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About Us

Munchkins Miniature Shetland Rescue was established in 2014 to provide a safe haven for miniature Shetland ponies in need. Achieving charity status in 2015 , we are dedicated to rescuing ponies from abuse, neglect, and abandonment. At Munchkins, every pony is treated as an individual, with their own unique personality and needs. We focus on providing specialized care, handling, and plenty of extra 'TLC' to help each pony recover and thrive in a loving environment.

Why We Exist

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Miniature Shetlands are often seen as adorable and low-maintenance, but their small size and appeal can lead to serious misunderstandings about their care needs. Many are bought as companions or novelty pets, only to end up in unsuitable homes with owners who lack the knowledge or resources to care for them properly. This often results in neglect, mistreatment, or abandonment, leaving many ponies traumatised and in a very poor state. Others fall victim to overbreeding, flooding markets with unwanted ponies that are sold at sales or sent to slaughter. Munchkins Miniature Shetland Rescue exists to give these ponies a second chance, offering them the care, respect, and safe haven they desperately need.

Underweight rescue pony on arrival at Munchkins

Specialist Care

Shetland pony having dental treatment

At Munchkins Miniature Shetland Rescue, every pony is treated as an individual with unique needs. From the moment they arrive, their physical and emotional well-being is carefully assessed. Stallions are gelded, and all ponies receive regular farrier visits, vet check-ups, dental care, and any necessary medications. For ponies with long-term health conditions, time on and off grass is meticulously managed, and massage treatments are provided to aid their recovery and comfort. Nervous or traumatised ponies are given the time and space they need to settle into the herd and begin trusting people again. With patience and dedicated care, many ponies are rehabilitated and able to enjoy a brighter future. 

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Securing Their Future

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We rehome ponies within the South of England on a long-term loan basis, ensuring they go to homes that can provide the care and attention they deserve. Before any pony is rehomed, we conduct thorough home checks to make sure the environment is suitable. After the ponies have settled in, we continue to visit them in their new homes to ensure they are happy, healthy, and well cared for. These visits are a highlight for us, as we get to see our former residents thriving and receive updates on their progress. To date, we have successfully rehomed around 55 ponies. All ponies remain under the ownership of Munchkins, so if circumstances change, they can return to us to ensure their future is always secure. For those who cannot be rehomed due to health issues or age, Munchkins remains their permanent home, where they receive the best possible care for the rest of their lives.

Shetland pony with a volunteer
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Centre address
Munchkins Barn,
Colyton Hill, New Sidmouth Road,
Colyton, Devon,
EX24 6HX
Postal address
 Morganhayes Farmhouse,
Southleigh, Colyton, Devon,
EX24 6RY
Registered Charity Number: 1160509
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Website Design and Photography by Lucas Barribal

All images on this website are copyrighted and may not be used, reproduced, or distributed without prior written permission from Munchkins Miniature Shetland Rescue

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